Virtual Care Services

Virtual physical therapy, or telemedicine, gives patients the ability to interact with a licensed therapist through video conferencing. telemedicine in general has been a growing trend for health care, and it offers the ability to help a broad range of patients. For example, people in remote areas and patients with limited mobility are two types of people who can benefit.

With the coronavirus and COVID-19 pandemic now altering our lives in many basic ways, virtual physical therapy has the ability to help more people than ever. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are recommending mass social distancing, and many governments are issuing shelter-in-place orders. In this situation, virtual care can offer people the ability to get treatment without leaving home.

Specialists in Sports and Orthopedic Rehabilitation (SSOR) is taking the threat of COVID-19 seriously, and the safety of our patients and staff are our highest priority. In light of this, we’re offering virtual physical therapy services to those who cannot leave their home in addition to in-clinic appointments.

It’s still important for patients in need of physical therapy and rehabilitation to stay committed to their treatment programs. To help you understand how virtual physical therapy can help you achieve your wellness goals during this challenging time, please take a moment to read the following information. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or would like additional information.

The basics of virtual physical therapy

Virtual physical therapy uses an internet connection and the camera and microphone built in to most devices to deliver remote physical therapy services from a professional clinician. If you’ve ever used Skype or FaceTime, just think of having a video call with a physical therapist and going through many of the steps involved with a therapy appointment. At Specialists in Sports and Orthopedic Rehabilitation, we use a secure communications platform that is built with the needs of physical therapy patients and providers in mind. This solution is streamlined and user-friendly.

Your real-time virtual physical therapy session will allow you to interact much like you would in the clinic. Patients can expect a few key differences in their treatment; for example, hands-on treatments such as manual therapy will obviously not be possible. However, core physical therapy treatments such as therapeutic exercise, active stretches, balance and posture training can all be performed seamlessly with this technology.

Our virtual care services can help both existing and new patients needing:

• Post-operative rehabilitation
• Therapy for automotive or sports-related injuries
• Pain management and function rehabilitation for age-related conditions and neurological disorders

Preparing for virtual physical therapy

Preparing for your virtual physical therapy appointment will not be that different than an in-person visit. Along with comfortable clothing that allows for mobility, you will need an internet-connected device with a camera and microphone. This includes most smartphones, tablets and laptops. If you’re using a desktop computer, make sure it has a working webcam and microphone and that you have adequate space around it. Our platform works on all major internet browsers.

Additionally, patients attending a virtual visit should follow these best practices:

• Watch out for appointment confirmations sent by email.
• Check your internet connection for stability.
• Test your camera and microphone prior to your session.
• So you can focus on your therapy without worrying about your device, make sure you have hands-free hardware. For phones and tablets, some type of stand will be required.
• Try to create a dedicated space in your home that is well lit and free of obstacles.

For more information about what to expect from physical therapy in general, please visit our FAQ page.

Cost and payment for virtual physical therapy services

Telemedicine is being covered by most major insurances at the same rate as in-person visits would be. We can work with your carrier to confirm. We also accept FSA and HSA payments as well as debit or credit cards for self-pay.

Start your virtual physical therapy program with SSOR today

With the current emphasis on self-isolation and social distancing, we also don’t want to forget about staying physically active. This is especially true if you have an injury or condition requiring physical therapy in order to achieve recovery goals. With virtual physical therapy services from our professional team, this challenging time doesn’t need to set you back.

Contact us today to schedule your initial appointment for virtual physical therapy. Our team can answer any questions you have about this new form of delivering quality treatment.